3 schools listed for ‘potential closure’

November 20, 2012

The Randolph County Board of Education classified three schools as "noted for closure" in its comprehensive educational facilities plan Monday.

Assistant Superintendent of Schools Terry George said changes had to be made to the 10-year plan as a result of the proposed bond call failing in the Nov. 6 general election.

Homestead Elementary, Harman and Coalton Elementary schools were all listed as "potential closure" schools, George said during a short presentation to the board about the adjustments to the CEFP.

The number one priority on the list had been the recently completed revisions at Third Ward Elementary, and the community schools were slated next for work. The recent bond call that was defeated sought $13.5 million for improvements at Tygarts Valley High/Middle, Harman School, Beverly Elementary, Coalton, Beverly Elementary and Elkins High School.

"The revision is a result of the bond failing," George said. "We had to revise our priorities."

George said projects at TVH/MS have now taken over as the second and third priority on the list with work at Elkins High School coming in fourth. George said that the updated CEFP will be submitted to the West Virginia School Building for approval on Nov. 26.

"This is just a revision of the plan we already submitted," George said. "This is not an official vote to close the schools."